Becky Hammon on interviewing for Toronto Raptors vacancy at new Las Vegas Aces facility #WNBA #NBA

By Andrew Bancroft May 1, 2023 29 mins read 1859 Views

We believe in Raptors culture, one of hard work, resilience and optimism. We trust Masai Ujiri, the current team GM and his masterful vision for our current roster and their destiny as a championship-contending team.

We know that a second championship is within reach, and until that day, we stand together to support our team through thick and thin.

If you feel the same way, we invite you to join us in our mission by contributing your global perspective on all things Raptors.

You can email us at [email protected] with any content suggestions or ideas - we want your take on Canada's most loved basketball team!

"We The North” was never just a slogan; it embodies how much we believe in this franchise, city and country alike. This is more than a game - it's a movement driven by authenticity, attitude, sportsmanship, excitement and honour between Raptors fans across North America.

This is why thousands of voices come together when cheering for the raptors victory during every game - We The North!

Join us as we shout out "Let's Go Raptors" everyday! Let us show our unconditional support for the hometown heroes- Toronto Raptors! Let us display true pride because its what makes every fan of this franchise believe that the ‘impossible’ could be possible someday.

With your support, Our small yet strong community can grow into something bigger and truly remarkable. Together, great things are Possible!

Becky Hammon on interviewing for Toronto Raptors vacancy at new Las Vegas Aces facility #WNBA #NBA

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the Raptors beat the Chicago Bulls?

The Raptors defeated Chicago Bulls in the final round of the 1996 NBA Championship. Final score was 109-108. Michael Jordan attempted to win the Bulls' game with a last-second shot, but it failed because it occurred after the final buzzer had sounded.

How was the Toronto Raptors' inaugural year of existence?

The Toronto Raptors had a difficult first season in NBA. Brendan Malone, who was then hired by Isiah as GM, became the head coach for the Raptors' 1995 franchise. They soon acquired many talented players through the draft and through trades. The Raptors defeated the Chicago Bulls once in that season but finished the season with a 21-61 record.

In 1996, Toronto drafted Marcus Camby, who became Rookie of the Year and formed part of the starting line-up with Alvin Williams at point guard. Damon Stoudamire was traded later in 1997. Toronto made more roster changes over the years to ensure future success.

Despite all the changes, the team struggles throughout its first few seasons in the NBA. Toronto made its first playoff appearance in 2000 after years of rebuilding and transition. However, it lost the series to New York Knicks.

How did the Raptors win the NBA title in 2019?

DeMar DeRozan was traded to Toronto Raptors by Jakob Poltl (protected 2019 first-round draft pick) and a Toronto Raptors player in return for Kawhi Leonard.

The Raptors traded Jonas Valanciunas and Delon Wright C.J. on February 7, 2019. Miles, and a 2024 second-round draft pick to the Memphis Grizzlies for Marc Gasol--another multiple All-Star and former Defensive Player of the Year--and signed Jeremy Lin shortly after that.

The Toronto Raptors had an extremely exciting offseason. Two major trades sent shockwaves through NBA. DeMar DeRozan and Jakob Poltl were traded to the Raptors. A 2019 first-round draft selection (that was protected) was also traded to the San Antonio Spurs. In exchange for those players, they received Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green from the Spurs. They traded Jonas Valanciunas and Delon Wright C. J. Miles, as well as a 2024 draft pick to Memphis Grizzlies for Marc Gasol--another multi-All-Star and former defensive player of the year. These moves put the Raptors in a great position to compete for an NBA title this season. Let's have a closer look at each trade.

The trade for Kawhi Leonard was a risk-reward move for the Raptors. Leonard is an MVP-caliber player when healthy, and he's a top-5 player in league. He was injured and only played nine games last year, so there are concerns about his long-term well-being. The Raptors decided the reward was worth taking the chance and signed the deal. So far, Leonard has been healthy and has been playing at an All-Star level. He is averaging 26 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists per game while shooting 49% from the field and 38% from three-point range. If he can keep his health, he will give the Raptors a real shot at winning the NBA title.

Marc Gasol made a trade for Marc Gasol, but it was a very short-term one. Gasol is well into his 30s and clearly is past his prime. He is still a great player and brings valuable experience to the young Raptors team. He averages 15 points and 8 rebounds per game. He also shoots 34% from three point range. The Raptors gave up some young assets in Delon Wright and C.J. Miles was acquired by Gasol. However, the Raptors believe his expertise will prove to be valuable during playoffs.

The Raptors began the season strong with a 6-0 win. They broke the franchise record for winning 16 consecutive games, which was set by a record 16-4 record. On November 23, the Raptors won their 24th game against Cleveland Cavaliers. They also reached 20 wins faster than any other time in their history. The Raptors were careful with Leonard and did not allow him to play more than 20 games during the season in order to avoid aggravating his injury. However, they managed to capture 2nd place in East, only trailing behind Milwaukee Bucks.

The Raptors continued to be successful in the playoffs. They beat the Philadelphia 76ers, Orlando Magic, and Milwaukee Bucks to make it to the NBA Finals for first time in their history. Leonard was named Finals Champion and the Raptors took home their first title.

The Toronto Raptors enjoyed a successful offseason. This has been a huge success. Two All-Stars are on the roster and the Raptors look poised to be contenders in the years ahead. They have proven they can take risks and make bold moves when it comes down to building a championship-caliber team. It will be exciting to see if this team can continue their success.

Why is Toronto Raptors called Raptors

The Toronto Raptors were founded in 1995 as part of the NBA's expansion into Canada. The logo and name of the team are based on Jurassic Park, which was released in 1995. The team colors are bright red, silver, purple, black and silver.

The Raptors were struggling to establish themselves in the league during their first season. They ended up with a record 21-61. However, the team improved each year, and by 1999, they had made their first playoff appearance.

The Raptors most memorable moment was 2019 when they captured their first NBA championship title. Toronto won their first title in thrilling six-game series against Golden State Warriors under the leadership of Kawhi and Kyle Lowry, the Raptors' backcourt duo.

Since then, the Raptors have become firmly entrenched as one of Canada's most beloved sports teams. From international superstars to homegrown talents, Toronto continues to bring excitement to basketball fans around the world.

The Toronto Raptors are a proud part of Canada's basketball heritage, and their success on the court inspires young athletes around the country. The Raptors will continue being a favourite team because of their passionate fans and unique style.

Statistics

This improved during the 2006–07 regular season to an average of 18,258 fans (13th in the league), 92.2 percent capacity at the Air Canada Centre. (en.wikipedia.org)
As predicted by analysts, the team easily secured a berth in the 2001 NBA playoffs with a franchise-high 47 wins. (en.wikipedia.org)
Thomas named Raptors' GM NBA superstar to have 10% stake in the new franchise". (en.wikipedia.org)
This improved during the 2006–07 regular season to an average of 18,258 fans (13th in the league), 92.2 percent capacity at the Air Canada Centre. (en.wikipedia.org)
Thomas named Raptors' GM NBA superstar to have 10% stake in the new franchise". (en.wikipedia.org)

External Links

nba.com/raptors

Negotiations to increase the number of NBA-Pro-Line tickets in Ontario

Italian building block

jerseymuseum.org

Toronto Raptors Jersey History - Jersey Museum

basketball-reference.com

Nets vs. Raptors, November 3, 1995 | Basketball-Reference.com

1996-97 NBA Schedule

assets1.sportsnet.ca/basketball/nba/teams/toronto-raptors

Toronto Raptors tickets - FTX Arena – 10/22/2022

How To

The best time to go to a Toronto Raptors match

Toronto Raptors games usually take place during the weekdays between October and April. Weekends are often reserved for other events, such as concerts and festivals.

You should book tickets in advance as they sell quickly.

Wednesday is the most popular day for Toronto Raptors fans to visit. This is because many fans show up early to watch pregame warmups.

After the game, fans head over to Nathan Phillips Square, next door to the ACC. They stay there till the end of game.

After 8pm is the best time to go to a Toronto Raptor match. Fans should not leave the stadium after midnight, but they should return to celebrate their team’s victory.

Resources: